Third Sunday of Lent

In John’s gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. The Temple was central to Judaism. It was the focal point of the nation and its way of life – its worship and music, its politics and society, its national celebration and mourning. This was the place God had promised to live amongst the people.

Australia's inhumane detention centre on Nauru was emptied in July 2023. However, there are distressing reports indicating the government plans to refill it. On February 16, 2024, a group of people seeking safety arrived near the former West Australian church mission of Beagle Bay, sparking a significant response from Australian media and politicians over the weekend.

Once again, refugees and asylum seekers have become politicised and are being used as pawns in a political game. Offshore detention is one of Australia’s most enduring and brutal policies, involving the detention of people in the Pacific while they await resettlement in a third country. This policy has caused immense suffering to individuals and families, while also placing significant pressure on the Australian economy and taxpayers. Furthermore, it has proven to be ineffective.

On 26 November 2007, the General Assembly declared that, starting from the sixty-third session of the General Assembly, 20 February will be celebrated annually as the World Day of Social Justice. Proponents argue that promoting decent work and a fair globalization agenda focused on fundamental rights, employment opportunities, social protections, and constructive social dialogue between governments, employers, and workers is key to putting social justice at the core. The Edmund Rice Centre for Justice and Community Education as a centre dedicated to advocacy and social justice stands in solidarity with others on this day recognising the importance of fairness and equitable treatment in work and the global economy. Click here for further information on the day.